15 October 2018- The Peak Tramway and then flight from Hong Kong to Vancouver Canada

Following yesterday’s quiet day where the heavy cloud cover and occasional shower impacts what we could do until late in the afternoon, we awoke to a morning of light clouds and patchy sunlight.

Breakfast was in the Executive Lounge and the views ate simply stunning on what is a much better morning. 

Following breakfast we do some packing, print out our tickets for the subsequent flight From Vancouver to Portland Oregon, then arrange a later checkout time of 1.15pm, the time when our Blacklane driver will arrive to take us to the airport. 

Ken decides with the better weather to go to the Peak, take photos and come down by the Peak Tramway.  He is advised by the Concierge of the Lounge to catch the Peak bus from Admiralty to the top , enjoy the views and take photos before descending via the tram.  

This proved wonderful advice. I will explain as I go further.  The Peak bus departs over the road from the Pacific Place Shopping Centre and this is the commencement of the route.  I had gained exact change HK$10, paid on entry, got a seat and enjoyed the next 30 minutes as the bus climbed the mountain stopping every 400 metres. We eventually reached the Peak terminus under one of the main buildings, then walked to the Peak, took photos, was amazed by the views although nowhere near as clear as on previous two visits to Hong Kong, 

Then decided following 40 minutes of photos and the occasional pushing of people from the 2 cruise ships on excursions, that it was time to catch the Peak Tram down.  This was relatively simple with less than 10 people in the queue, which was processed quickly. 

The boarding notification was given , the doors opened, we got seats and 2 minutes later the half empty tram made its way down the mountain.  It was interesting, with several stops and the angle of the tram vis a vis the buildings is quite dramatic. 

Following an interesting descent, we reached the bottom terminus, where there was bedlam , with some 400-500 people queued at the bottom.  The decision to go up by bus, saved at least an hour’s waiting time as the queue only clears about 70-80 people per ascent.

That was all spared, and I then caught a taxi back to the Conrad Hotel, but as I alighted from the cab, my mobile phone fell out of my trouser pocket, but was fortunately seen by the doorman.  Could have been a dramatic loss. I tipped the doorman, he thanked me, I thanked him.

Then back to our suite to finish packing, which Jeanette had almost finalised.   It has been a terrific stay in Hong Kong.  The Conrad is just a wonderful hotel.  Service is great, the suite excellent and the Executive Lounge worth it.

We are relaxing for an hour before check out and our driver arrives for the 35 minute trip to Hong Kong Airport.  We have to correct a couple of issues with our tickets then to the Cathay Pacific Lounge. 

We are seated in 18A and 19A on a new A350 airbus. We will depart Hong Kong at 16.15pm arriving in Vancouver at 13.00pmthen have several hours stopover before we join our Canada Air flight from Vancouver BC to Portland, OR. 

The view from the Peak. 

The Peak Tramway boarding for The descent  

The amazing view from the lookout. 

The photo below is of the reception area at the Conrad Hotel, Hong Kong

The view from the Executive Lounge at breakfast this morning. 

An amazing view with sunshine breaking through the cloud cover. 

Two cruise ships visiting Hong Kong, berthed in Kowloon. 

An amazing city with some 8 million people, living in this very small space. 

View over the Harbour from The Peak. 

11 October 2018- Disney world holiday Oct Nov 2018 Departure from Melbourne and travel to Hong Kong

We are working to complete all preparations for our family holiday to the USA including the Disney  cruise and Disneyworld resorts. All bookings are finalised and we have contacted several friends with whom we will catch up during this holiday

 Our short visit to Hong Kong visit late this week is all finalised.  We then will fly to Vancouver before a short transit flight to Portland Oregon. 

Gavin picked us up at 3.50pm and dropped us off at the Parkroyal at Melbourne Airport.  We enjoyed an excellent run and with roadworks finalised it is now an easy trip through Melbourne and onto the Tullamarine freeway. 

Checkin was quick and we were in Room 923 with terrific views back over the airport and we entertained ourselves watching the planes come and go. Ken arranged for a 5.30am wake up call.  We showered and changed after a good night’s sleep. 

We checked in at 6.45am and went to the Cathay Pacific Lounge where we enjoyed a light snack and coffee. Flight was called a little late but we walked through and were on the aircraft in 10 minutes in 11 D and G .  Very comfortable pods but not a window seat for Jeanette.

Take off was 10 minutes late but everything is super comfortable in the new A350 long range.  Our seats are configured in a 121 style with a herringbone pattern. 

Service delivery was excellent, efficient and friendly but very respectful and courteous.  Breakfast was served about 75 minutes from Melbourne and was enjoyable.  Following breakfast we both watched the movie “The Greatest Showman’s” and enjoyed it very much.  Ken subsequently watched the  Berlin Syndrome, a strange and difficult story.  

Our luncheon was served some 4 hours later , after drinks and aperitifs.  A super meal and superb French red wines. 

Then we enjoyed a rest. 

We landed at about 3.00pm.  An excellent flight.

Through immigration, but queues did move quite well. 

Our luggage came through quickly, we loaded it into a trolley and exited customs through the green line. 

We were looking for our Blacklane driver, and we quickly came across Ken Lam with a sign.  He took our luggage deposited us in the lounge, got the car and was back inside 5 minutes.  A Mercedes S350 and very comfortable.  We were whisked into Central Hong Kong near Admiralty Station to the Conrad Hotel. This is an amazing city with a throbbing pulse and people everywhere. Our drive takes 35 minutes and is pleasant. 

We are greeted at th3 Conrad as old friends. It is a beautiful hotel and checkin is relatively quick. Our room faces the hills and several high rise apartment buildings.

The room is simply stunning and with every creature comfort. 

We decide to go to the Executive Lounge at 6.15 pm having unpacked. 

The Lounge is on 59th floor with stunning views over Victoria Harbour.  We take some photos and enjoy the snacks and drinks.   Our suite is on 56th floor 5623, very comfortable.

We are both very tired, but need to get our clocks around a little.  We make it to 8.00pm (11.00pm Melbourne time) then collapse into our comfy bed and we sleep for 10 plus hours and awake to a pleasant morning feeling refreshed.

The view from our window. 

The view from the Executive Lounge on level 59 overlooking Victoria Harbour. 

14 October 2018 -Amazing 🇭🇰Hong Kong.

We awoke to a relatively clear morning after 9 hours sleep.  We showered and changed and went to breakfast in the Executive Lounge on level 59. Stunning view as seen from the photos.

Following breakfast Ken went for a walk to Admiralty Station took photos of buses and trams. 

We departed at 10.30am allowing us almost an hour to catch the tram to Causeway Bay terminal for our Viator  Excusion on the old Tramway car.  We walked from the tram stop as instructed by th3 driver , but like many others had difficulty finding the off shoot to the Causeway Bay terminus, where we were expected to join our tour group.  We inquired of several groups who all gave conflicting directions.  We arrived at 11.30am some 10 minutes prior to the scheduled stop. And commencement tme was confirmed by a gleeful little Chinese person , who advised we were th3 last of the group.

Boarding was chaotic but we were each given our two day passes and the mandatory ear buds to listen to a very British commentary.  For 90 minutes we travelled around the wonderful tram network and passed by several iconic buildings including the Supreme Court, the Hong Kong Jockey Club, a myriad of high rise of all sorts of vintages.

We then came to the Market Place terminus where our tour finished.  We had photos taken then walked about before catching the tram back to Admiralty andbPacific Place where the Conrad is located.  We enjoyed a salad for lunch.

Then followed a relaxing afternoon after a hectic but enjoyable morning.  There are several noticeable things.  The sheer scale and numbers of people , everywhere there are people all going in different directions.

The number of younger people is a constant surprise.  This is a fast growing city with over 200 additional people coming from the mainland each day.  The amount of building construction remains high although there are less than on our last visit.  The underground is being extended. 

We had cocktails and nibbles in the lounge before we departed by taxi to pier 9 Central to join the Symphony of Lights Hong Kong Harbour Night Cruise to see the highly laser show, light up the towers and skyline. 

We joined quite a number for a very enjoyable tour of the harbour before Positioning the ferry to watch the laser light show. At 7.49 pm there was an announcement advising that the light show would commence.  Well we then enjoyed 20 minutes of wonderful lights illuminating the high rise towers and dancing over the harbour. 

It was terrific, we took it all in, enjoyeda drink and then were returned to Pier 9 after first dropping off the majority of the passengers at Kowloon wharf. 

We walked around taking photos of the wheel then caught a taxi back to the Conrad Hotel.  We walked in the door at 9.30pm and then went straight up to our room. 

The night was a bit cloudy and more is promised for tomorrow.

We have enjoyed a terrific day.  Into bed after a coffee and watching some golf.  Slept well for another 9 hours and finally the body clock has adjusted. 

Sunday we intend to catch the 15 bus up to the Peak, then come down from the top.  But if it remains this cloudy may just go out into the streets.  We decided that the cloud cover and likelihood of rain made the visit to the Peak problematic, so postponed that idea.

We walked through Pacific Place, a fantastic up market shopping mall and across to the underground. We then decided to have lunch at a small restaurant and enjoyed salads and cappuccino.  Then back to our suite where Ken completed this update and Jeanette sent a post card. 

The weather continues to be cloudy and grey with no sunshine and decided not the day for a visit to Victoria Peak.

Ken went for a walk and took photos of the Executive Lounge , where “High Tea” was being served and there were quite a few people.

A terrific light display at Pacific Place, below the Conrad Hotel  

Our Conrad bear! 

A terrific lunch. 

Afternoon High Tea at Executive Lounge here at Conrad Hotel, Hong Kong

And more

Afternoon High Tea - Just superb! 

29th October 2018. Epcot Centre, Disneyworld, Orlando Florida

An early rise and following breakfast we departed to arrive at Epcot Centre, Disneyworld for a family day enjoying this remarkable theme park. 

David had coordinated our fast pass arrangements and did a terrific job, although the initial ride was delayed through technical difficulties. 

He booked Spaceship Earth, The seas with Nemo and Friends, Living with the Land , Soaring around the World, just amazing, a journey intoImagination with Figment, Turtle talk with Crush, Seabase and several other rides.

We arrived early and the family arrived about an hour later after a delay with the monorail train. 

Jeanette and David with Ken walked through the entrance and sat just beside the large ball, which is the central image of Epcot. 

The whole place is experiencing Epcot International  Food and Wine Fstival with a whole focus on international food and wines, but we found this difficult because seating was limited, so we ate lunch at Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Harvest Feast at the Garden Grill Restaurant.

Following lunch we continued to walk to several of the above shows and presentations.  Perhaps th3 most enjoyable was the Disney Music and Symphony with Donald Duck with 3D . 

The boys had enjoyed the Test Track presented by Chevrolet prior to lunch. 

We repeated the Soaring Around The World , quite simply our favourite display riding a glider and soaring throughout the World to a variety of World icons and eventually ending back at the fireworks here at Orlando. 

whilst we had intended to stay to watch the fireworks at 9.00pm, in all honesty we were tired, the boys ratty so we departed earlier and returned home where we enjoyed a light meal prepared ala Jeanette with several beers. 

Just an amazing Day at Epcot, enjoyed by all the family, but oh so tiring. 

28th October Restful day at Grande Vista Resort and Golf here.

Following our wonderful day yesterday at Magic Kingdom, Disneyworld today will be a slower restful day.

We awoke to a beautiful morning after a lengthy night’s sleep. We did some shopping as a top up. 

Breakfast was cereal with orange juice and toast.  Jeanette determined that all  dirty washing should be put out and she completed a clean of everything. 

David and Ken went for a walk and booked golf here for 12.30pm following an early lunch of salad rolls. 

The beautiful golf course is part of the !arriott golf programme, it is a 9 hole Executive type course, beautifully maintained.  We drove to the Clubhouse parked and were fitted out with almost new Taylor Made clubs and sleeves of balls.  We had an excellent afternoon of golf, both playing well, but our putting probably led us to 2-3 more shots.  For the front nine David had 6 over, whilst Ken had 10 over the par 32.  The back nine Ken played better and had 6 over for a gross 78.  Very pleasing result on a perfect interesting course. 

Following the golf we thoroughly enjoyed a superb meal of Steak and salad followed by apple pie and ice-cream. 

Jeanette did eat dinner but has been feeling somewhat unsettled. 

We sat and enjoyed some American Football beforeball turning in at about 10.00pm. 

The kids had another day at Disneyworld and were apparently very tired. 

Tomorrow we visit Epcot. 

16th October 2017 The first of two days with Rich and Elizabeth in Portland Oregon

We awake having slept very well.  Arrangements are for Rich and Elizabeth to pick us up at 9.30am and for us to enjoy a late brunch at La Provence Pattisserie a stylish French breakfast and all day eatery in Lake Oshwego.  There was great excitement as we gave each other welcome greeting hugs.  This was an interesting venue, with stylish decor, superb French pastries and assorted food.  We enjoyed a Mimosa followed by French crepes

Following breakfast we went for a walk through the Shopping area and along the waterfront via the lake,then we drove through various leafy areas and arranged our plans for today to include a visit to the famed Japanese Gardens of Portland and then visit the adjoining famed Rose Gardens, where our host , Rich has a stone named in his fathers honour and a rose named “Duke”.

We walked up and down the stepped walkways, thoroughly enjoyed the visit and thoroughly enjoyed the stunning gardens. 

A highlight was the short walk from the Rose Gardens and through the award winning roses.

They then dropped us off at Embassy Suites, where we rested for a time before dining at a Peruvian Restaurant, which is regarded as one of the best overall restaurants in the city of Portland.  We enjoyed a small plates framework of 4 plates as starters then had amazing Desserts.  The food was superb, the venue excellent, but the noise was very difficult. We had a wonderful night.

Then back to the Embassy Suites, for a rest overnight.  It has been a fantastic day in beautiful weather. 

17th October, 2018. Our 2nd day in Portland with Rich and Elizabeth. Pittock Acres Park and Mansion and Washington Park

We woke to a great morning with clear skies and a brisk breeze.  We are assured of another superb day. 

Our commencement was delayed until pickup at 10.30 am and we decided to have a brunch at another of the French Bakery Restaurant named La Provence.  Rich ordered Mimosas and we then enjoyed a hearty breakfast, tabled incessantly as to the lovely day yesterday,bthebduperb Peruvian Restaurant, even if the noise level was somewhat jarring. 

From brunch we drove to Pittock Acres Park and Pittock Mansion an historical home, where we enjoyed a walk through superb gardens overlooking the city of Portland with Mt St Helens in the background.  We then did an extensive 2 hour tour of the mansion.  Just fascinating as the home of the first wealthy newspaper magnate of th3 area.

Following this a short visit to the spectacular Washington Park.  Beautiful gardens, again highlighting the autumn beauty on a perfect day. 

Rich decreed mid afternoon that he was hungry, but that he and Ken were going to enjoy a couple of beers, discuss the world then go for a walk through the shopping area before dropping us off for a time of rest before dinner at a lovely Italian Restaurant in the trendy up market suburb of Lake Oseaga.

Elizabeth and Jeanette suggested a cool drink and afternoon tea of cakes and a cool drink. We parked the car on a street and walked a block in the afternoon sunshine to a hotel restaurant where we ordered beers and also afternoon tea..  It was simply delightful.

From here we walked down the street and visited several stores, all selling Halloween items. 

Elizabeth wanted to spend more time walking through these trendy shopping areas, but Rich showed little enthusiasm.

Following this they dropped us off at our hotel where we had almost 2 hours for a rest then shower before they picked us up for dinner at a lovely Italian Restaurant where the noise levels were lower than last evening, and where we enjoyed an excellent 3 course meal, discussing how we first met, what has occurred since and some future plans. 

Rivh is in good health following a significant prostate cancer bout last year.  He is back playing tennis and golf. 

 He is very much engaged in volunteer activities supporting  the homeless through a St Vinnies affiliate and in working with local government agencies. 

We have enjoyed 2 lovely days with these long term friends.  We just get together and catch up. 

Tomorrow we pick up a rental from Enterprise and then make our way to SunRiver and catch up with Tom and Cathy. 

15th and 16th October 2018 Flight Hong Kong to Vancouver and Portland and then to Embassy Suite Washington Sq Portland OR

We were picked up by our Blacklane driver at 1.15pm on afternoon of 15 October from the Conrad , Hong Kong and driven the 35 minutes to the hotel. 

check in took 10 minutes and then 15 minutes through security and immigration before going to the lounge.  We had about 85 minutes before CA838 to Vancouver was called. 

An excellent flight with Jeanette seated in 18A and Ken Behring in 19A.  We were served dinner about 90 minutes after takeoff and enjoyed a very good meal and Ken raved as to the French red wine.  Then we enjoyed about 5-6 hours of light sleep.  They woke us at 1.30am to serve breakfast, not really what we wanted, then we landed at about 2.40am after our 11 hour flight.  We arrived in Vancouver “before” we had departed Vancouver given we had crossed the International date line. 

At Vancouver we used the new digital imaging system for access through immigration and security.  It was an impressive means of going through security and immigration, then picked up our cases and then booked in through Air Canada for our flight at 5.10pm #8127 to Portland OR. We had a lengthy wait and then made our way to the gate only to be advised that it had been changed to E88.  So we walked back and down another area and found the gate and were then handed our seats 20A and 20C.  These were at the very back of the small Dash 8 plane.  A short flight of 44 minutes had us in Portland at 6.10pm after seeing beautiful snow capped mountains all the way down the coast. 

Our luggage was a little slow, but we exited the terminal at 6.35pm and there was our Blacklane driver waiting .  It was a bid SUV and he wished us to Embassy Suites Tigard in approx 40 minutes.  We checked in unpacked, then phone Rich and Elizabeth Hanson and arranged to meet tomorrow morning.  Ken showered and watched a little College Football before succumbing and was in bed at 8.40AM. 

We both slept very well waking at 7.15AM on another perfect autumn morning, brisk but promising a beautiful day.  We had a light breakfast then we meet Rich and Elizabeth at 9.30AM. 

18th, 19th and 20th October 2018. Trip to SunRiver and meeting with Tom and Cathy Akins. Then back to Eugene Oregon.

After 2 wonderful days with Elizabeth and Rich in Portland Oregon, we said our goodbyes and slept very well following our superb Italian meal.  The drive back to our hotel was some 15 minutes and we chatted about a range of things including political issues here in the USA. 

Morning came very quickly, we packed and prepared to checkout and then Ken caught a cab to Enterprise Car Rental, where he picked up  Ford Explorer, plugged in the GPS and then made our way from Portland to the resort township of SunRiver where re stayed at the beautiful Stone Ridge resort.  We arrived after some 3 hours 40 minutes of driving through scenic countryside.

Our accommodation was a resort home of 3 bedrooms, lounge, dining and 3 full en-suite.  We decided when booking to leave the Upstairs Masterbedroom and en-suite locked and rented the other two bedrooms .  We had full access to the rest of the Villa/ home.

We stayed close to the resort on the first day, walking in the general area, before touring around other parts of SunRiver.  We had dinner the first evening at the Central Grand Resort and Golf Club.  We talked our way through Burgers and beer and Jeanette had a salad.  A terrific venue, busy but with tables well separated conversations were easy.

Back to our villa where we enjoyed desserts and coffee, before turning in.  This had been a most enjoyable day to renew our friendships with Tom and Cathy, although Tom is suffering from broken ribs following a fall.  He allowed Ken to drive around the resort.

The next morning brought perfect weather with a very light breeze. 

After breakfast we decided to sit and talk before driving through the resort and then parking away from th3 lake and waterways, before walking through the SunRiver township, which has undergone a full renovation since our last visit. 

Lunch was at the local Brewery and Restaurant where we enjoyed an excellent lunch menu. 

In the afternoon Ken went swimming, then a visit tonSiodlands Golf Course here in SunRiver.  Recognised as one of the very best resort courses in Oregon and the North west of USA.  Ken and Cathy also went for a swim at th3 indoor “Shark” pool set up, just fantastic.

Dinner tonight was at the specialty Mexican Restaurant where Tom had fortunately made a booking.  It was extremely busy with tables turning over 2-3 times over the evening. We thoroughly enjoyed the food.

Following dinner back to our Villa where we talked for about 90 minutes but Tom was clearly struggling with his Ribs.  The Resort had brought a reclining chair in for him to sleep in.   

Our time together is passing quickly and we depart ermy the next morning to return to their city of Eugene, which is @ large provincial rural city.  We are staying at Embassy Suites and we find it very comfortable.  We are close to the freeway and th3 Airport is a short 20 minute drive tomorrow morning.  

We have dinner tonight at the Hop Valley Brewery House, a unique institution here in Eugene.  It is packed and despite going early we are still required to wait for a table, but the former brewery site now converted into the brewery restaurant is really rocking, with mostly younger people.  Ken takes photos of thebrewery, bar and eating area as well as the many memorabilia and merchandise offerings.  Food and drink is excellent. 

Following dinner we say our farewells, it has been a short but most enjoyable get together.  We thoroughly enjoyed refreshing and reconnecting after several years.  We felt sorry for the pain that Tom is experiencing with his broken ribs, but delighted that they made the arrangements to meet.

We are tired but excited as we start to make our way from Eugene to Orlando via Phoenix flying American Airlines.  I am writing this account several days following, so little did we appreciate the shambles and difficulty we would encounter and the costly but fortunate way out. I will elaborate tomorrow as we fly to Orlando, then get picked up and driven to Cocoa Beach before our Disney Cruise from Port Canaveral.

30th and 31st October Golf at Hawk’s Landing and Family at Animal Kingdom, Disneyworld and dinner at amazing California Grill.

After a long and tiring day yesterday at Epcot which we thoroughly enjoyed, a time for quiet relaxation for us.  We all pulled up sore after walking some 8 hours at Epcot then a quick swim and dinner at ourbCondonhere at Grande Vista a Marriott resort.

We woke this morning to the most perfect sunrise, clear blue skies and no clouds or wind. David and Ken are playing golf at 11.00am at Hawks’s Landing, one of the top local courses.  This is based at the spectacular Marriott World Centre resort.

Chris, Peita and the boys are visiting Animal Kingdom and wanting to ride the spectacular Avitar new ride. 

Jeanette has elected to have a restful day, after feeling ill and sleeping poorly. 

The golf is fantastic on a superb aesthetically appealing layout with a significant number of holes with water.  We played with Tom from New Hampshire, a lovely chap and a good golfer off 15.  He hits it long and straight, doesn’t give anything away. 

David played very well after a lacklustre start and had a good score.  Ken played well ,but had six or seven putts short, which would have made it a very good day.  Nonetheless, a score of 91 on a tough course, with a couple of lost balls was a very good result.

We had no time to have a drink, but purchased caps and ball markers for my group at Kew, then drove back to the resort, showered and dressed to return to thebDisney Contemporary Resort, where Peita andbChris had booked dinner at the California Grill Restaurant.  We were met by the boys and their parents they had enjoyed an excellent day and enjoyed the new ride.  They were showered and fresh. 

Dinner was a terrific night out, good food, excellent wine and great company.  We all enjoyed the meal the view and then went to their room via a lengthy walk.  Very comfortable and we sensed Peita and Chris wanted us to see it.   

We thanked Chris and a Peita for the night.  They paid the bill as a special thank you to Jeanette and myself.  We were very pleased with everything and believe the Disney Dream Cruise and The Disneyworld experience has been terrific in every way. 

The boys presented Key rings saying “we love our Grandma and Grandpa” to each of us.  A lovely touch.  A fantastic family experience in every way. 

Subsequently, the boys changed into their Halloween costumes and th3 family walked back to Magic Kingdom for the Halloween party, then returned to the California Grill to watch the Disney Fireworks. 

We walked back to our car, travelled home via the freeway and eventually got back to Grande Vista, which was lit up like a Christmas Tree, at 9.45pm.  We all agreed an excellent day. 

Into bed and we all slept well.

Again awoke to a spectacular morning, Jeanette and David slept in.  Sunrise just spectacular clear skies, no clouds. 

David had been thinking of driving to Kennedy Space Centre but changed his mind.  A quiet day for our last here in Orlando and he and Jeanette are to go to the Premium Outlets following lunch.  Ken walked around the resort taking photos.  Confirmed our booking for this evening at The Grill at the Golf Club. We enjoyed a swim in the smaller pool. Enjoyed an excellent family meal.  We completed the night by seeing off Chris , Peita and boys at 8.15pm  then returned to our villa.

Have thoroughly enjoyed our time in Orlando at this magnificent resort, the golf has been fantastic, condo very comfortable in every respect and the Disney experience has met our expectations. 

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21st October 2018 Travel from Eugene to Orlando and transfer to Cocoa Beach.

We arrived at Eugene Airport to checkin for our flight having got our seats for both flights last night.  It was an easy drive of 25 minutes from the hotel. 

The airlines representative began to book us in but said despite the tickets which we held she couldn’t check our luggage through, we would need to collect at Phoenix and then pass through security and re check and with short changeover, we may not make our flight from Phoenix to  Orlando and should contact our travel agent/ Expedia.  She said there was nothing she could do despite us having seat passes for both flights. 

we were angry and in a quandary but checked on line. There were no suitable American that Airlines flights so booked United from Phoenix to San Francisco and then the red-eye from SanFrancisco departing late and arriving in Orlando at 6.15am on morning of 22nd October , the day of the cruise. 

Not ideal but assuming all goes well then we get to Orlando, having changed our transfer arrangements  , arrive at Cocoa Beach at 8.00am.

We enjoy the first 2 hour flight from Eugene to Phoenix, then go to collect our luggage.  Our flight from Phoenix to Orlando was delayed but we wouldn’t have made it.  So we catch the train from Terminal 4 to terminal 2/3 and then get a lift.

Subsequently we find out that we could have made the American Airlines flight as it was delayed ( we wonder why?).  But United worked well, we slept a little but arrived in Orlando our driver was there at the luggage carousel And we had a quick uneventful transfer to our hotel.

Relieved to be in a Cocoa Beach and excited as to the cruise with boarding due at 12.30pm.

We contact the family, they come to us at 10.45am.  All very exciting. 

22nd October, 2018 Cocoa Beach to Port Canaveral and boarding on Disney Dream for the 4 day Halloween Cruise.

Having arrived at 8.30am from the airport in Orlando we were tired but this was mitigated by the excitement of undertaking the 4 day Disney Dream Cruise with our family. 

They arrived at about 10.30am bubbling with excitement and enthusiasm.  We had about a 90 minute tme together before we used Uber’s to get us to the cruise port.  We were excited to gain our first view of the ship. 

We joined the queue for passage through immigration and security and whilst the queue was long it moved well. 

We took photos of the model ship and th3 Disney characters were there to greet us.  All mad excitement and gushing enthusiasm with all of us wide eyed and very excited.  We were then welcomed gained our cruise cards and made our way on board where we were ushered in via a gallery of crew members.  Our cabins were not ready until 1.30-2.00pm so we had lunch in one of the dining rooms. 

The boys were of course treated like royalty and we met our waiters who would serve our table #33 for the next 4 days. 

Following an enjoyable lunch completed with ice creams we were able to go to our cabins and our luggage would follow.  We had cabin 8086 with a verandah, Chris and Peita and Oliver had 8020 and David and Seb had 8018, although Seb would end up sleeping with his family.  These two cabins each had a large port hole. 

Following this we attended the lifeboat drill without life jackets and then it was time to depart.  The ship left at approximately 5.00pm with a wonderful away party with characters everywhere. 

Then we we had a drink and celebrated the sail away, then dinner in the Royal Palace Restaurant just off the main lobby, then we met Xavier our assistant waiter and xxxx our waiter, and they looked after us well.   Following dinner Ken went to the 8.30 performance of the live show in the Walt Disney TheTre then a walk around the ship.  Jeanette adjourned and was asleep when Ken returned.

The family also watched characters and saw some of the show. 

We slept very well, we were exhausted following the flight. After breakfast we arrived at the port of Nassau in the Bahamas, it is hot and humid.  We walk the city streets, do some shopping.  The boys wanted to ride the Horse and Carriage but the horses rest in the hottest part of th3 day.  We do purchase some local souvenirs, but it is generally just a walk and see issue. 

1st November 2018. Depart Orlando and head to Daytona International Speedway and overnight.

Another perfect morning and we pack our gear and depart Grande Vista resort Orlando and make the short 75 minute drive to Daytona.  Here we intend to do the 1.30pm tour of the World famous speedway. 

Peita, Chris and the boys will meet us here at Grande Vista and we will drive to Daytona in convoy. Jeanette is now driving and enjoying it.

Another superb day with clear sky at 7.00am. 

We awoke early enjoyed breakfast and methodically packed to packed to prepare to depart Orlando. Jeanette went to Walmart to exchange some tee shirts. 

Checkout was at 10.00am and we did check out a little after that time paid our account.  We have had a wonderful 6 days at Grande Vista here in Orlando. 

The trip to Daytona Beach and Daytona International speedway took about 1 hour 20 minutes driving along I5 for some 30 miles of major road construction in Orlando. Jeanette drove the total journey today.  We arrived at Daytona International Speedway at about 12.05pm in time for the earlier full tour scheduled for departure at 12.30pm. 

We thoroughly enjoyed this comprehensive tour of the simply amazing Daytona racetrack.  We toured a variety of area , drove on the track and were amazed by the banked turns of 31 degrees.  The stadium and seating in the main straight has been increased to accommodate approximately 150,000 seated and an available attendance of 250,000 plus. 

From here we crossed over and were allowed to exit the tram and walk at the corner where th3 banks are steep at 31 degrees.  Quite amazing that they can travel at 170 miles per hour on those banked corners and 260 miles per hour on the straight.

We sat in the stands having used the escalators to ride up to level 3.  Took many photos of all facets of the tour.  Then visited the amazing museum of racing cars. 

David and Chris purchased items from the shop featuring items associated with Daytona. 

The photos are a great graphic descriptor of a wonderful tour.  We all enjoyed it and the boys, Seb and Oliver in particular had a great time.

From here we went to lunch at the Olive Garden Restaurant where we all enjoyed a very good meal. Ken picked up the bill and we departed at 3.45pm.  We then drove 20 minutes to our hotel here at Daytona Shores, the Hampton Inn by Hilton.  Very comfortable and we are sharing 2 rooms 513 and 514.  We have a view of the Atlantic Ocean.  The ocean is rough and a change is forecast for tomorrow.

Just a great day.   

Tomorrow we drive to Bluewater by Spinnaker at Hilton Head Island about a 4 hour drive.  We all remain tired so early to bed this evening. 

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Our accommodation at Daytona Shores at the Hampton Inn by Hilton was comfortable and ideally served our needs. 

Ken walked along th3 beach as did David a little later. 

After the late lunch we decided not to eat anything other than some bars and fruit.  In bed at approximately 9.30pm, a terrific day was had and Jeanette described the excitement of our Boys big and small at Daytona International Speedway. Really an outstanding tour of a great sporting venue. 

2nd November 2018 Drive from Daytona and Ormond Beach to Hilton Head Island and Bluewater by Spinnaker.

We awoke to a perfectly clear morning with a beautiful sunrise and the seas had abated and were now pretty calm, no real surf. Ken walked along the beach put his hands in the Atlantic Ocean.  We departed at 10.35 am to travel to meet Peita, Chris and the boys.  But despite the best of plans we had the wrong address and it took much effort, considerable tension to finally arrange to meet them.  We finally departed Daytona Shores at 11.50 am, it has been a disastrous start to our day and a storm is predicted later in the afternoon.

Jeanette drove with a Peita following and we drove for 1 hour 40 minutes before stopping for lunch at McDonalds’s. It was an important stop for lunch, toilet break and to break the 5 hour approximate travel time. 

Following lunch and the resumption of our journey, the cloud cover deepened and it wasn’t long before the weather closed in and we had a severe storm through which we travelled with difficult vision, severe road spray and all in all a very difficult time.  Jeanette and Peita did extremely well to safely navigate this whole storm over almost 75 minutes of continuous heavy rain. 

After travelling through such, it began to ease and finally stopped about 30 minutes later and we stopped for fuel and toilet breaks. This left a straight drive to Hilton Head with us scheduled to arrive at 5.17pm after a most challenging drive through terrible weather conditions, with Jeanette and Peita doing a tremendous long drive.  We were most grateful for their efforts.

Arrival was as scheduled, we checked in and there was great excitement by everyone as we went to our villas 6444 and  6443, two two bedroom villas very comfortable in every way.

Jeanette and Chris shopped at Publix for dinner and Breakfast requirements.  We eventually sat down to eat a Pizza at about 7.45pm.  It has been a long day. 

Chris, Peita and the boys Seb and Oliver are next door, they fed the boys, got them into bed early as possible then ate. 

A challenging day all round, but we are comfortably settled into Bluewater delighted with the accommodation. 

A good night’s sleep will do everyone good. A very tough day. Thanks to Jeanette and Peita for the driving. 

3rd November 2018 A Perfect morning at Hilton Head Island.

We slept very well after yesterday’s tiring drive.  We awoke at 7.10am and whilst just before sunrise it is a perfect morning in every way. 

After breakfast and showering, we had the boys pay us a visit. 

Ken visited Country Club of Hilton Head to book golf for Sunday and Tuesday at the cost of cart hire and club rental. 

Jeanette is about to go shopping at Publix to purchase all of our needs for the next 4 days here at Bluewater.  She is currently taking photos of the small fishing vessels out on the inter coast waterways.

We walked around the resort, then we enjoyed swimming at the indoor pool.  Followed by a lunch of salad, bread stick and fruit. 

Ken visited reception to have our door keys reset. 

Following the boys playing some basketball, we are going to visit the lighthouse and marina at Harbourtown for a walk and ice-creams.

It has been a relaxing day, with everyone refreshed. 

 Ken did buy ice creams for all but Peita Tapper was good and declined. We all sat in the rocking chairs and enjoyed it all!!

The outdoor main pool area with the lazy river. 

Seb and Peita putting the large chess pieces back to start a new game. 

Chris rocking Narnie and Oliver down at the Bluewater wharf area. 

Oliver with an important message regarding the 2 alligators in the lagoon. 

Our building 6400 and we live in 6443 and 6444. 

Oliver at the outside pool

David with boys in the indoor pool. 

The lazy river. 

The heated indoor pool

Back into Bluewater after a quick stop at Publix for decent red wine. Jeanette cooked a fantastic meal.

Just a great day enjoyed by all, boys terrific and sense the relaxing time in the heated indoor pool was to everyone’s advantage. 

 Great time at Harbour Town .  Enjoyed by all. 

Oh what a Sunset here at Hilton Head Island! 

The most amazing sunset. 

Spinnaker by Bluewater with wonderful reflections.

The Spanish Moss with a spectacular Hilton Head Sunset behind

23rd October 2018 Arrival in Nassau after our first night at Sea. Then the magical Halloween Party with Disney Characters on the Disney Dream.

We enjoyed our first night on board the Disney Dream. Following dinner in the Royal Palms Restaurant with our Server Lieher and his assistant Xavier spoiling us all. 

Following Dinner Ken went to the production show in the Walt Disney Theatre and watched a magical show of singing and Dancing with quite a large cast.  Surprisingly the theatre was only 70% full for the second show, but the first was totally sold out. 

At the conclusion of the show, we walked through the impressive Disney Dream to get a better understanding of the various areas. 

Then into bed after a long day.  Jeanette had departed earlier and was dead to the world when I arrived back at our suite 8096. 

Morning came around quickly, we had breakfast by ourselves at 8.30 am.

The ship berthed at the port and city of Nassau  , which is the capital of the Bahamas.  Weather was hot and humid under clear blue skies.  We decided to walk through the city street close to the Port, with the pastel colours of the many varied types of architecture.  David and Chis together with Peita we keen to find a local brewery, but found out it had closed.

We spent some 3 hours off the ship, could see the famous Atlantis resort in the background. 

The following photos show the city area. 

Following our visit to Nassau the boys and Peita and Cris changed for the Halloween Party with the Characters.  The boys looked fantastic Groot and Chewbacca and were very excited. 

The party was held in the lobby area and there were hundreds of people and many children of all ages.

The Disney characters danced and played and were wonderful. 

The party was amazing. The fellas had a great time. 

Dinner tonight in another restaurant with wall animations. 

Our servers moved with us and again provided fantastic service.  The food and drinks service has been excellent but the meals are taking an eternity to deliver. 

Another wonderful Disney production show and then off to bed as we have a very full day tomorrow at Disney’s Castaway Cay their very own Island which has been fully fitted out with a whole range of activities, 

24th October 2018 Disney Dream Visit to Castaway Cay ( their own Island)

We awoke as the Disney Dream docked at Castaway Cay, although David and the family had been awake earlier.

The weather was initially overcast, but would Subsequently clear to a perfect day. 

We departed the ship following a family breakfast.We exited the ship and the. Walked from the wharf to the first of the activities and entertainment events.  We were able to secure deck chairs and seats just up from the beach. There was great excitement with the boys running around and we temporarily lose them as they excitedly run some 300 metres up the beach. 

Chris locates them brings them back with a stern warning.  There are nearly 2,800 guests of all shapes and sizes on the beach and doing other activities.  There are many water activities to be part of. 

We have a great day with a whole range of activities.  A highlight was the inflatable that Seb was using, that got blown away and despite Chris swimming after it, to no avail and it was blown some 800 metres away. 

It was also a lesson as to how dangerous the winds can be. 

Lunch was served at one of several bbq areas.  We had a lovely meal. 

An exciting day and the following photos depict. 

Tonight was Pirates night with many passengers dressing in amazing outfits for the concert of pirates, then the deck party. 

Our boys all wear their masks.  The day on the Pirates Island at Castaway Cay had been a great success. 

25th and 26th October 2018 Sea Day on Disney Dream and arrival back in Port Canaveral,FL.

Last night we were due to have the fireworks display, but due to a medical emergency the ship had to return to Nassau where we were in port for in excess of 2 hours. The show last evening was an illusionist and magician who picked his market of younger children, parents and tired grandchildren very well.

We subsequently slept well. We all gathered for breakfast and thoroughly enjoyed it together. We used the day at sea to wander and enjoy the ship.  I haven’t commented previously but Disney has an outstanding Children’s Club where children can be signed in post breakfast and in this age grouping of 3-12 they can then spend any time throughout the day under the supervision of qualified nanny’s. so during this day at Sea both boys wanted to “go” to the Kid’s Club for several hours.

The pools were all crowded by hundreds of parents all seeking sun. 

Lunch we all got together in the buffet area called “Cabanas” where we all enjoyed a pleasant salad and chicken, some pizza and an outstanding variety of dessert. From here we walked back via the open pool deck, then had an ice cream, before going to watch the Disney afternoon film. All good fun. 

Dinner tonight was in the other dining room named Enchanted Garden, a totally different environment after the magic of illusions. 

Tonights show was another Disney Production show in the Walt Disney Theatre, this time almost totally full and a wonderful show of singing and dancing and magic and colours.  Then we all went upstairs to watch the brilliant fireworks which had been postponed from last evening, due to the medical emergency and our rush back to Nassau. 

The fireworks lived up to expectations. 

Disney Dream and Disney have met our expectations  .  We have thoroughly enjoyed our family Disney Cruise with many wonderful memories.

5th November 2018. Meeting here at Bluewater, then Shopping and family off to see Savannah.

We awoke a little earlier following a good night’s sleep.  The sky is heavily overcast and we have had good rainfall throughout the night.  This morning is dry, but still with a threat of further rainfall this afternoon before improving to a near perfect day tomorrow. 

We had a meeting with Stan Lewis to discuss our Bluewater Timeshare and how to maximise these investments in terms of return and what we do for the next 2 years. 

A worthwhile meeting from 9.00am until 10.20am.  We agreed that we will come back next year seeking to then bank our 2 weeks for 2019.  We will do this in January 2019.  Assuming this goes OK we should be able to bank and get 3 weeks for each week of Bluewater.

In March / April 2019 we will seek to book 2 weeks over the fortnight of the Heritage Golf Tournament of 2020 and then see what he can do a n terms of rental and use developer time for our bookings.  He emphasised that we can book developer tme for any period of time.  He will assist.

 So we went in two cars to Tanger Outlets 2 initially for a range of stores including shoes before we went back along the freeway to Tanger Outlets 1.

We did shop for a period of time with David purchasing shoes at Addidas and New Balnce.  Ken purchased golf tees and Golf gloves and also a light weight jumper at Tommy. 

Jeanette purchased shoes at Sketchers for the “little people”.  We also purchased cotton trousers for Ken from Van Heusen at amazing prices.

At Tanger Outlets as the weather deteriorated  

Back at Spinnaker Bluewater and it is a wam, wet and humid.

We drove back to Bluewater in terrible conditions with heavy rainfall tending to thunderstorms.

Enjoyed Lunch with pizza, rolls, watermelon and finished with cinnamon rolls.  Just scrumptious. 

Following lunch Jeanette went back to the Post Office to purchase a box to mail gear back to Melbourne. 

The family has driven to Savannah to see the city and its brilliant architecture and federation architecture. Unfortunately, we sense it will be a soggy visit.  Jeanette and Ken have visited Savannah on some 4 occasions, enjoy it very much but felt they would enjoy time together as a family.

Seb and Oliver are bright and chirpy and we sense that their “batteries “ have been totally recharged during our slower pace here at HHI. 

Dinner tonight, which is the last evening here in Hilton Head Island will be at Skull Creek Restaurant.  This is one of the favourite and highly regarded Restaurants and we hope a great means of celebrating our time here. 

Had a superb meal, with a good wine and all family members thoroughly enjoyed our final meal here at Hilton Head Island. Finished our meal and back by 8.50pm.  It has been a most enjoyable stay. 

6th November, 2018. Golf at Country Club, Shopping At Outlets and Family Depart for Charleston

We were in bed early following the family dinner. 

Morning came quickly, we slept well and it is just a perfect day, following yesterday’s humid and extremely wet afternoon. 

The puddles have cleared, it is departure day for Peita, Chris , Seb and Oliver as they make their way to Charleston  later this morning, before having a carriage ride through the wonderful architecture and historical splendour of beautiful Charleston.  They depart Charleston tomorrow morning for Washington DC. They will get a very good comparison between Savannah and Charleston over these two days.

So we will miss them when we drive to Charleston tomorrow afternoon following a late checkout here.

This morning David and Ken are again playing golf at Country Club of a Hilton Head. 

Jeanette has spotted some clothes at Chico, which she will follow up. 

So following breakfast we awaited Peita, Chris and the boys to pack and bring their cases and other gear here prior to checkout at 10.00am.  There were issues with too much gear and after packing a box  to send home to Nanny there was still a range of gear.  So much so that Chris felt they would need to purchase another mid size suitcase.

Jeanette drove David and Ken to the Country Club of Hilton Head where they were scheduled to tee of ar 11.16am and after dropping them off, she returned to the unit with Sebastian.  Peita and Chris then went to the US Post Office to send home their box of gear.  They received a shock as to the cost and the weight of the box, which should arrive back in Australia in about 6-10 working days. 

The boys also had an ice-cream at the Cabana here at Bluewater, then Jeanette said her goodbyes following a splash in the pool.  The family headed to Charleston where they commence an intense 11 days of travel to visit Washington DC, Philadelphia, and Chicago.  They will undertake visits to Museums, Football, Basketball and Ice Hockey venues.

Jeanette then returned to the Outlets specifically Chico and shopped to purchase a range of outfits for cocktails and cruising activities.  She was delighted with the results of her shopping 🛍.

David and Ken enjoyed a round of golf in close to perfect conditions, although it was very humid and temperatures in mid 70’s. 

David commenced very well, until he hurt his back and this impeded his golf. 

Ken started poorly, but played well throughout to end with a score of 88 and a net 67 on a tough course.  No lost balls, played very consistently but didn’t make the required putts to finish off the day.  Ken felt a score in mid 80s would have better reflected the effort and a really good performance. 

David had a score in the low 90’s but was disappointed as a consequence of his sore back. 

We played with a Canadian couple from Ottawa.  They purchased a home here in Plantation Estate some 4 years ago and now spend 4 months here and 8 months at home.  They are delighted to be “sunbirds” enjoying the best of both worlds.

During our round we did see Alligators sunning themselves on the banks beyond the billabongs and lakes.  There was wonderful vistas with Spanish Moss hanging from trees. 

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The view back over the r3sort from our front porch. 

Just a superb morning here at Bluewater Resort Hilton Head Island. 

We saw this Gatter on the ban on the 6th hole

The 11th hole which Ken parred. We  

The very testing 14th hole where David hit it to 3 foot.  Deep marshes and grassy lowlands and gators. 

The Alligator, not sure if he is awake or asleep.  Didn’t want to find out.

The Alligator sunning himself on the small island in the middle of th3 billabong between 16th and 17th holes at Country Club of Hulton Head.  

The beautiful Spanish Amos’s on the 17th hole at Country Club of Hilton Head. 

We finished after 4 hours and 25 minutes having enjoyed the company of Ivan and Helen, on a couple of occasions he had sought our views re the US political environment given today was the voting day for mid term elections.  We remained guarded and think we probably shared the same feelings.   

Jeanette picked us up and drove from Plantation back to Bluewater.  The weather has deteriorated with storms now forecast. 

Dinner tonight internal with Jeanette cooking. 

Then we will watch some of the political reviews of the US mid term elections. 

Tomorrow we depart Hilton Head and drive the 2 hours to Charleston where we will undertake the horse and carriage ride.  

Our time here at Bluewater has been enjoyable and relaxing.  It has been a fantastic time in a comfortable condo and a lovely resort.

Chris sent David a text saying that the Charleston carriage ride had been brilliant.  We know that from our prior visits, we look forward to doing such over our next few days. 

Storm clouds fast approaching from Bluffton.  Forecast is thunderstorms. 

At the Marina beside Hudsons Restaurant next door to Bluewater , whilst is all lite up, they are also securing the fishing vessels before the forecast storm arrives.